The recent announcement by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration regarding strict measures to deal with the power crisis in the region has caused concern among the public. While the administration has put in place a detailed demand side management plan to ensure optimal utilization of available power, the measures announced have caused hardships for the common people and businesses in the region. The Optimal energy utility plan seems to be giving shocks to Islanders.
The decision to impose strict restrictions on the usage of air conditioning units in government buildings and commercial establishments during peak hours of the day is understandable. However, it is unfair to impose the responsibility of providing power supply on small businesses, hotel owners and the public in general. The administration must take responsibility for ensuring adequate power supply to meet the needs of the people, especially during hot and humid weather conditions.
The directive to shut down shops by 7.00 pm has also had a negative impact on the economy of the region. Many businesses have been forced to operate at reduced hours, causing financial losses to owners and workers. Moreover, this decision has also caused transportation problems for the workers who depend on public transport to travel back home. Sudden change The rush of auto-rickshaws during peak hours has caused chaos and inconvenience for the public.
The hotel owners and small industry owners are also facing a significant financial burden due to the directive to use their own generators during peak hours. The cost of fuel required to run these generators for several hours each day is significant and will have to be passed on to the customers, increasing the cost of living for the people in the region.
The Andaman and Nicobar Administration must take immediate action to address the power crisis in the region. It is essential to ensure that all machinery and equipment required to provide a continuous supply of power are in place and functioning correctly. The administration should also conduct an inquiry into the failure of the electricity department officials responsible for maintaining the power supply in the region. The top officials of Electricity Department must be questioned by the Administration as why they have failed so miserably to provide sufficient power to the public? How can administration plan to transform such powerless Andaman into a Tourism hub? There is a need to fix responsibility on some officials so that from next year everyone remembers the maths of power requirement during exam season and power available.
The directive issued by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration to deal with the power crisis in the region has caused hardships for the people and businesses. The administration must take responsibility for providing basic amenities to the people, including a 24-hour power supply. The people of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands deserve better, and it is the responsibility of the administration to ensure that their needs are met.
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